[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 70 (Friday, May 23, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S5100]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              LOIS PALAGI

  Mr. BAUCUS. Mr. President, I rise today to commend Mrs. Lois Palagi, 
a third grade teacher at West Elementary School in Butte. I want to 
recognize Lois because she has distinguished herself as one of the best 
and most beloved teachers in the community of Butte.
  In Montana we pride ourselves on providing our children with a top 
notch education. And we do a great job. But that success doesn't happen 
by accident. All Montanans shoulder part of the responsibility. One key 
component of our success is Montana's dedicated and hard-working 
teachers.
  Lois is a prime example of how teachers help our youth become some of 
the most competitive minds in the country. She has served her students 
for over 35 years. And in that time, she has taught her children the 
importance of discipline, respect, knowledge and wisdom. So many people 
have grown up under her watchful eyes to become responsible, hard-
working adults because she led by example. And now she leaves behind a 
legacy of dedication, caring and love for teaching. She has brought 
great honor to her noble profession.
  At the end of this school year, Lois will begin a new undertaking--
retirement. She will be able to spend more time with her husband Larry, 
son Mark, and daughter-in-law Linda. And devote more of her time to her 
three grandchildren: Bob, Jessica, and little Andie Elizabeth. She will 
be dearly missed at West Elementary School. But I'm certain she will be 
heartily appreciated as she spends more time with her family.
  Mr. President, it is impossible to count the number of lives that one 
person touches during his or her life. But I do know that in 35 years 
of teaching, that number is sure to be a mighty sum. I would just like 
to add my voice to all the others and say ``Thank you, Lois.''
  And good luck in your retirement.

                          ____________________