[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 24 (Wednesday, February 13, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E184]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNITION OF CATHY TRAVIS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 13, 2008

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I would like to 
bring to the attention of my colleagues the contributions of a great 
public servant, Cathy Travis, on the occasion of her retirement from 
the staff of Congressman Solomon Ortiz and the House of 
Representatives. On January 1, 2008, after more than 25 years on the 
Hill, Cathy retired from her position as the senior advisor to 
Congressman Ortiz.
  Through her dedication and diligence, Cathy also enabled me to 
maximize my efficiency as the chairwoman of the Texas Democratic 
congressional delegation. For that, I am grateful.
  A native of Jonesboro, Arkansas, Cathy graduated from Arkansas State 
University with a bachelor's degree in public relations and an emphasis 
in political science. Politics always fascinated her, and after 
graduation, she went to work for former Congressman Bill Alexander (D-
Arkansas) as a press assistant. She also worked on the floor of the 
House of Representatives, for the Office of the House Majority Whip, 
and on numerous political campaigns. She performed all assignments with 
a sense of humor, a sense of duty and above all, a sense of patriotism.
  Since the early 1990s, Cathy Travis saw a need for more educational 
tools to give the American people a better understanding of how our 
Government works and the fundamental rights accorded by the 
Constitution. Thus was born her book, Constitution Translated for Kids, 
an accessible translation of the document that serves as the foundation 
of the United States Government. The original text is paired side-by-
side with a kid-friendly interpretation to pique interest and stimulate 
further discussion of American liberties. It also includes a discussion 
of proposed amendments to the Constitution that have been strongly 
debated, and a detailed explanation on the separation of powers.
  Cathy Travis is a dedicated American in the finest tradition, and 
this institution will greatly miss her.

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