[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 84 (Wednesday, June 24, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1212-E1213]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO FOSTER GRANDPARENTS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 24, 1998

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor some 
wonderful foster grandparents in Lenawee County who recently received 
recognition for their fifteen years of service. It's my pleasure to 
offer my congratulations and best wishes to three foster grandparents 
in particular--Mickie Diebel, Theta Luscumb, and Marie Schwalm.
  Since January 1983, Maxine (Mickie) Diebel has provided love and 
support for children with special needs. These youngsters, first at the 
Adrian Training School and currently at McKinley Elementary School, 
have flourished due in large part to Mickie's nurturing and guidance. 
Mickie has been a magnificent role

[[Page E1213]]

model and mentor to the young girls who have looked to her for help and 
support. Mickie, thank you for your dedication so much of your time and 
effort to improving the lives of kids.
  Theta Luscumb has been a foster grandparent since 1983. She began at 
Michener Elementary School but since 1991, Theta has worked at the 
Onstead Middle School. She is a wonderful source of advice and support 
to the children who have the privilege to look to her as a role model. 
An accomplished horsewoman, Theta shares that skill with her kids. 
Theta, I salute you for your dedication to area children.
  Marie Schwalm has been a foster grandparent since 1993. At the 
Blissfield Elementary School, Marie has demonstrated commitment, 
compassion, and wisdom in her dealings with young people. Even though 
she has some trauma in her personal life, nothing has obstructed her 
determination to serve as a voice of support for kids. Marie, thanks 
for your dedication.
  Those who make an extra effort to help nurture kids and nudge them in 
the right direction undertake a public service that benefits us all. We 
owe these women and the many other foster grandparents in Lenawee 
County and across the nation a debt of thanks.

                          ____________________