[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 151 (Wednesday, October 21, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2294]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                       A DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVANT

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                          HON. PHILIP M. CRANE

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 21, 1998

  Mr. CRANE. Mr. Speaker, I wanted to take this opportunity before we 
adjourn to recognize the longest serving member of my staff, Thelma 
Hummel, for all the excellent work she has done over the years on 
behalf of thousands of Illinois citizens residing in Chicago's 
Northwest suburbs. Thelma has been a case worker with my office since 
1988, and never will you find a more dedicated hardworking public 
servant. She has had to contend with the often frustrating task of 
trying to help constituents work with the many various agencies and 
departments which comprise our all too massive federal bureaucracy.
  While Members of Congress often receive credit for the good deeds our 
offices may accomplish in helping individual constituents, it is our 
staffs which deserve much of the recognition. My reputation, with 
respect to my constituents, has benefited greatly from all the 
excellent work Thelma has done for my office.
  Indeed, just the other day I received a letter from a constituent and 
veteran, Walter McCostlin, which served as another reminder of how much 
good Thelma has done over the years. Walter wrote that ``We are only as 
good as those with whom we associate and/or surround ourselves.'' 
Walter went on to say that ``Mrs. Hummel's dedication to seek truth and 
justice, devotion to uphold traits expected of government officials, 
and perseverance to safeguard [our] rights . . . cannot be surpassed. 
Her attention to duty and perseverance while supporting and assisting 
constituents . . . characterizes her as an example to be followed by 
all legislative employees.'' I could not have said it better, Mr. 
McCostlin.
  Mr. Speaker, the constituents of the 8th Congressional District of 
Illinois should be grateful and proud to have Thelma Hummel working for 
them.




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