[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 183 (Tuesday, December 8, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2916-E2917]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       IN APPRECIATION OF REDWOOD CITY COUNCILWOMAN DIANE HOWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JACKIE SPEIER-

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 8, 2009

  Ms. SPEIER. Madam Speaker, in an era of increased animosity in public 
life, Redwood City Councilwoman Diane Howard has been a

[[Page E2917]]

breath of fresh air. Fans of good government and humble leadership are 
sorry to see her retire after fifteen years serving the people of 
Redwood City.
  Diane was born in Rockville Center, New York, the first of eight 
children. In 1981, after graduating from nursing school, she and 
husband Steve moved west. Upon arriving in Redwood City, Diane jumped 
into her community, serving on the Housing and Human Concerns 
Committee, Parks and Recreation Commission and Child Care Advisory 
Committee. She has also been active on the Economic Development 
Committee of the Redwood City Chamber of Commerce, the San Mateo County 
Medical Auxiliary Board, and the Redwood City Housing Advisory Board. 
Her work with the Redwood Shores Neighborhood Association led to the 
financing and development of schools, fire stations and a community 
center.
  Diane was elected to the City Council in 1994 and was re-elected 
three times. Passionate about the issues of concern to her, 
Councilwoman Howard is nonetheless known for her kindness, warmth and 
positive attitude. Even those of opposing views will attest that Diane 
brought a new tone of civility to the City Council and its meetings. 
She is known for her patient willingness to listen to all points of 
view and has advocated for increased cooperation between City Hall, 
local businesses and community groups.
  Madam Speaker, I have worked closely with Councilwoman Howard over 
the years and enjoyed every minute of our interactions. I wish there 
were more people in public life like her. On behalf of my colleagues in 
the United States House of Representatives, I thank Diane for her 
service. I also wish to thank her husband, Steve, and son, Geoffrey, 
for sharing this remarkable woman with the greater community.

                          ____________________