[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 141 (Wednesday, October 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2017-E2018]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO ELNA MAE RYDEN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, October 8, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise before 
this body of Congress and this nation today to pay tribute to the life 
and memory of an outstanding citizen from my district. Elna Mae Ryden 
of New Castle, Colorado recently passed away at the age of eighty-one. 
Elna was an active and talented member of her community, and as her 
family and friends mourn her passing, I would like to pay tribute to 
her life and achievements.
  Elna was very active in her community, donating her time and talents 
to a wide variety

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of organizations. Groups like 4-H and the Elk Creek Homemakers Club 
benefited greatly from Elna's participation. Elna also served as 
Secretary for the Garfield County Farm Bureau and sat on the Founders' 
Committee for the New Castle Recreation Center. An industrious woman, 
Elna was a farmer and rancher; she owned and operated Shady Court 
Trailer Park--raised ostriches, emus, and chinchillas--and wired her 
house and those in her neighborhood for electricity.
  Mr. Speaker, Elna Mae Ryden was a talented and industrious woman. She 
gave liberally to her family, friends, and community. While Elna has 
passed on, her legacy will continue to live. I am honored to join with 
my colleagues in honoring Elna here today. My thoughts are with her 
family and friends during this difficult time.

                          ____________________