[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 29 (Tuesday, March 1, 2011)]
[House]
[Page H1403]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HONORING PAT KELLY

  (Ms. PELOSI asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to join the Speaker of the 
House to honor a committed public servant, a woman of this House, a key 
thread in the fabric of the congressional staff, who retires today 
after 54 years of service: Pat Kelly. Fifty-four years of service.
  Since arriving as a committee staffer in 1957, Pat Kelly has worked 
behind the scenes on behalf of the American people--never asking for 
recognition, never looking for the limelight.
  The daughter of Congresswoman Edna Kelly, Pat said she came to 
Washington because, in her words, ``I just felt the urge to do 
something.'' And for more than half a century, she did far more than 
her fair share.
  Pat Kelly has served in many roles on Capitol Hill. In all, she 
helped Members to do their jobs and worked tirelessly on issues 
important to her and critical to our country's future.
  Few issues played a larger role for her than the fight for women's 
rights. In 1962, she helped her mother pass the first equal pay bill 
and watched with pride as President John F. Kennedy signed it into law.
  As a legislative aide to former Congresswoman Martha Griffiths, Pat 
fought for the Equal Rights Amendment--continuing the march for 
equality, advancing the cause of justice for all women. Thank you, Pat. 
We're all in your debt.
  Through it all, whether the legislation succeeded or failed, she 
stood by a simple mantra: ``It's important for women to be involved.''
  For the past 22 years she has served as editor of the House Daily 
Digest, tracking committee activities and getting the word out on 
what's happening on Capitol Hill. In that role she has noted, ``I've 
been through the turnover to Republicans and back to Democrats, and 
tried to help each and every one of them do their jobs.''
  Helping others do their jobs, working in a bipartisan way--this was 
the essence of Pat Kelly's career and service.
  Pat Kelly's 54 years serving the House of Representatives is a 
reflection of her own dedication to Congress and the country, and 
represents the commitment, devotion to duty, and passion for service of 
all of our congressional staffers.
  Thank you, Pat, for giving so much to the House, for all of your 
work, and for fulfilling your promise to ``do something'' for all 
Americans.
  Yes, I join the Speaker in saying you will be missed. We are sorry 
that you are leaving. We wish you much success and, with deep 
gratitude, send you our love and best wishes.

                          ____________________