[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 14 (Thursday, February 1, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E91-E92]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING GAYE LeBARON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 31, 2001

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gaye LeBaron. For 43 
years Gaye LeBaron's columns in the Santa Rosa Press Democrat have 
recorded and enlivened Sonoma County and the Redwood Empire. By 
personalizing the community's history and sense of place with honesty 
and good humor, LeBaron captured the respect and the hearts of her 
readers.
  In her 8,000 columns LeBaron demonstrated that quality journalism can 
be witty, insightful, and compassionate. She worked as an observer and 
story teller, yet did not hesitate to take a stand--on issues as great 
as racial discrimination or as mundanely important as street lights--
when it was needed. Whether focusing on the quirkiness of every day 
happenings or wrapping the reader in the sweep of North Coast history, 
Gaye LeBaron's colorful depictions made life what it is--interesting 
and personal.
  LeBaron has also devoted her time and expertise to community causes 
through teaching,

[[Page E92]]

speaking, fundraising, and serving as a resource where needed. Her work 
interviewing local elders for a video history project with the Sonoma 
County Museum will stand with her columns as a testament to this 
special region and the spirit of its people.
  I can say personally that being included in a Gaye LeBaron column is 
a coveted experience. We will miss Gaye on a daily basis but will look 
forward to her continuing contributions.

                          ____________________