[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 175 (Monday, December 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2478]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E2478]]
                     HONORING THE PANETTA INSTITUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Leon and Sylvia 
Panetta, both dedicated members of the Central Coast and Washington, DC 
communities. Specifically, I would like to address their efforts 
regarding the founding of the Panetta Institute, a non-partisan center 
for the study of public policy. Located at the California State 
University, Monterey Bay, the institute serves the entire CSU system, 
as well as providing insight and policy information for legislators 
around the country.
  Soon after its founding in 1998, the Panetta Institute quickly became 
an integral contributor to the political community in a variety of 
media. One of the main focuses of the program is to equip today's young 
people with the practical skills of governance, all the while inspiring 
a life-long dedication to public service. In these efforts to develop 
ambitious and successful leaders, the Panettas have, in turn, provided 
legislators in California and DC with over 120 well-trained and 
informed interns. It suffices to say that, through their thoughtful and 
effective program, the Panettas have designed a quality system that 
greatly benefits both the student and legislative office. After working 
with students from the Panetta Institute in my office, it is clear that 
they are well oriented with the governmental process.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to 
commend Leon and Sylvia Panetta for their commitment to supporting 
sustainable progress in the 21st century by researching public policy 
and nourishing tomorrow's leaders. Their many contributions to all of 
us in office are invaluable. I am honored to represent the Panettas in 
Congress, as well as to hold the office that Leon himself held with 
dignity prior to my tenure.

                          ____________________