[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 130 (Monday, October 11, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1906]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING KATHI McDONNELL-BISSELL

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 8, 2004

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, earlier this year, the Town of Milford, CT 
lost one of its strongest advocates for seniors in Kathi McDonnell-
Bissell when she lost her battle with kidney disease brought on by 
diabetes. This month, residents and city leaders gathered to honor 
Kathi's memory by dedicating the newest addition to the Milford Senior 
Center in her honor. I am proud to stand today to join them in paying 
tribute to Kathi whose tireless efforts made such a difference in the 
lives of so many.
  Senior centers play a vital role in our communities and this is 
especially true of the Baldwin Senior Center. All too often, what are 
supposed to be one's ``golden years'' are filled with struggles. Health 
concerns, increasing health care costs, the loss of independence--these 
are just some of the challenges our seniors face. Perhaps even more 
devastating is the sense of loneliness that can come as one moves 
through their later years. Providing invaluable programs and services, 
senior centers make a real difference in the lives of some of our most 
vulnerable citizens. That is why they are so important to our seniors 
and our communities. Kathi recognized this need and, under her 
leadership, what began as a small office in the basement the Mary 
Taylor United Methodist Church has grown into one of the most respected 
seniors centers in the State, boasting over 4,000 active members.
  Kathi served as the Senior Center's Executive Director for over 30 
years--even her declining health could not dissuade her from continuing 
efforts to improve the quality of life for Milford's seniors. I had the 
remarkable opportunity to work with Kathi on a variety of projects over 
the years and was constantly in awe of her endless energy, compassion, 
and drive. She was one of the most dedicated individuals I have ever 
had the privilege of knowing, dedicating not only her career, but much 
of her own time to creating a Senior Center which was a resource for 
area seniors as well as a source of pride for the community. While it 
will be the last of such examples, the completion of the new ten 
thousand squarefoot, two-story addition to the Senior Center is a 
reflection of Kathi's dedication and commitment to providing for the 
ever-changing needs of her community's seniors.
  For her outstanding an unparalleled service, I am proud to stand 
today to join her husband, Robert; her children, Suzanne, Amy, and 
Betsy; family, friends, colleagues, and community leaders in paying 
tribute to Kathi McDonnell-Bissell. Her lifetime of generosity has 
touched the lives of thousands and left an indelible mark on the 
Milford community. Kathi was an extraordinary woman whom I consider 
myself fortunate to have called my friend. Though she will be missed by 
many, I believe her legacy will continue to inspire all of those who 
knew her--serving as an example to us all of what a community advocate 
should be.




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