[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 34 (Thursday, March 16, 2006)]
[House]
[Page H1120]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING ELEANOR SLATER

  (Mr. LANGEVIN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. LANGEVIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay my respects to 
Eleanor Slater, a great friend who passed away this week. Known as the 
grande dame of Rhode Island Democratic politics, Eleanor blazed trails 
for many people in our state, but especially for women. She began her 
distinguished political career in 1958 as a Representative in the Rhode 
Island General Assembly, and championed issues such as mental health, 
fair housing and especially issues affecting senior citizens.
  Always thinking of the next generation, she was a great advisor to 
many former and current politicians, including myself, Congressman 
Patrick Kennedy, and Senator Jack Reed. She had the foresight and 
belief that I could run for Secretary of State and win that race, which 
I did. She served as an honorary chair on many of my campaigns and 
taught me valuable lessons that I still carry with me today.
  While I am sad to say goodbye to such a wonderful woman, at 97 years 
old, we should celebrate Eleanor's long distinguished life. Eleanor, 
you made a difference. May God bless you and keep you safe in His care.

                          ____________________