[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 163 (Thursday, November 29, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2175]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  MARKING THE PASSING OF MARY KAY ASH

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                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 29, 2001

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute the 
life and legacy of Mary Kay Ash. For more than four decades, Ms. Kay 
has been one of Texas' most outstanding citizens and a business 
pioneer. Cosmetics sales were just a small part of the legacy she left 
for America. Her business made women feel better about themselves, 
regarding both their appearance and the possibility for success in 
business.
  Ms. Kay changed the way women in business were perceived. She 
pioneered direct marketing in a way that has been emulated for years. 
She tapped talent that may have otherwise gone unused. All over 
America, women are more empowered because of the life of Mary Kay Ash.
  Mary Kay Ash founded the cosmetic company that bears her name in 1963 
with $5,000 in savings, using a hide tanner's cream as her principle 
product. Since then, the color pink has been synonymous with quality 
cosmetic products and aggressive salespersonship. She was a phenomenal 
entrepreneur and, more importantly, an incredible motivator. One 
hundred fifty one women, so far, have recorded more than $1 million in 
Mary Kay sales.
  Last year, Mary Kay, Inc. had revenue of $1.3 billion. Today, there 
are about 800,000 women and men who make up the Mary Kay global sales 
force. It is an extraordinary legacy for a phenomenal lady who grew up 
in a poor Houston neighborhood.
  Mr. Speaker, Mary Kay Ash was one of Dallas-Fort Worth's most dynamic 
icons. She died on November 22, 2001. 1 ask that the thoughts and 
prayers of the Thirtieth Congressional District, and the nation, be 
with her family and friends.




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