[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 98 (Tuesday, July 19, 2005)]
[House]
[Page H6075]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           BIDDING A FOND FAREWELL TO ANITA AND TOMMY MAGGIO

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ros-Lehtinen) is recognized for 5 
minutes.
  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity 
to recognize someone who is very dear to me, a member of my staff who 
has been with me since I was elected to Congress almost 16 years ago.
  While Ms. Anita Maggio has been part of my office family since 1989, 
she has actually dutifully served Capitol Hill for 34 years. She has 
always been a dear friend to me and to the people of south Florida. 
Anita is a steadfast, loyal and dedicated member of my staff.
  While other young staffers have come and gone, Anita has been the 
unwavering anchor in my office. Not only does Anita's mere presence 
boost morale in our office, but also she is a clearinghouse for 
information and contacts. Anita knows just about everybody on Capitol 
Hill, and everyone knows her. She has built a network of friends that 
is unequaled anywhere on the Hill. Everyone she meets is touched by her 
kindness and by her warmth.
  Even though she does not have any children of her own, she has 
adopted all of us, including the staffers from other offices. She has 
the uncanny ability to make everyone feel loved and comfortable.
  Anita Maggio is a very special soul. Her sensitivity and compassion 
touch all those who are blessed to know her.
  Before joining my team, Anita was employed by my predecessor, the 
late Congressman Claude Pepper. Over the years, she has developed an 
intimate knowledge of the district and of the residents of south 
Florida.
  When Anita retires, she will leave a void in my office that no other 
individual will ever be able to fill. She will be retiring with her 
husband of 42 years, Tommy Maggio. Over the years, all of us have come 
to know Tommy Maggio. If you are lucky enough to know Tommy, you will 
know that he will be retiring from the Rayburn House garage after 
working there for an amazing 32 years.
  It is with great sadness that I bid a fond farewell to one of the 
most special women I have ever met, a trusted friend and a member of 
the Ros-Lehtinen and Capitol Hill family, Anita Maggio. Anita will be 
forever remembered in our hearts.
  We love you, Anita; and we love you, Tommy. Please do not make her 
cook for you every single night. Anita deserves a rest. Be good to her.

                          ____________________