[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 127 (Tuesday, September 16, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1793]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING HERB LEONARD ON RETIREMENT FROM THE WASHINGTON METROPOLITAN 
                         AREA TRANSIT AUTHORITY

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON

                      of the district of columbia

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 16, 2003

  Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of one of 
the finest public servants with whom I have had the pleasure of working 
in the District of Columbia. After 30 years, Herbert Leonard, Jr., a 
native Washingtonian, will be retiring from his position as the 
Government Relations Officer for the District of Columbia at the 
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority WMATA. WMATA will be 
losing a valued employee and I will be losing a treasured counsel and 
advocate.
  Since 1973, Herb has worked closely with other elected and government 
officials in the District of Columbia as well as civic associations, 
advisory neighborhood commissions and businesses. Over the years, many 
of these groups have recognized Herb for his efforts in their 
communities. Today I, too, honor his work.
  I cannot count the number of times that Herb has gone above and 
beyond the parameters of his job in order to assist me in bringing 
comfort and support to my constituents. Whether facilitating 
transportation for a constituent with disabilities or helping 
disadvantaged children at my annual Christmas parties, Herb has been 
dedicated, respectful, and responsive to the needs of the people of the 
District of Columbia, particularly those in the greatest need of 
assistance.
  With his energy and intelligence, Herb Leonard could have been a 
success in any line of work he desired. Indeed, Herb holds several U.S. 
patents and in 1965, he was chosen by then-Vice President Hubert 
Humphrey, as one of 85 prominent black businessmen to visit 
predominately black colleges in order to convince minority youth of the 
importance of getting a good education and to encourage them to take 
advantage of the increasing career opportunities in business and 
industry. With the world at his feet, Herb chose to make public service 
his vocation, and for that, we should all be grateful.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to join me in wishing Mr. Leonard the 
very best in his new endeavors.

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