[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 14, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Page S3770]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                         TRIBUTE TO NORA THOMBS

 Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, in the 1930s, the forces of 
tyranny and oppression seemed to be taking over the world. The American 
Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary were especially concerned that 
tyrannical regimes were indoctrinating their young people in hateful 
ideology, and so they countered with an initiative to better educate 
young Americans in democracy and leadership. Since then, some 2 million 
high school students have been delegates to Boys and Girls State 
programs throughout our Nation. Forty-one years ago, I served as a 
Dirigo Girls State delegate in my State of Maine, and I will never 
forget that inspiring week.
  Today I wish to recognize Nora Thombs of New Sharon, ME, for her 
remarkable commitment to this program. When Dirigo Girls State convenes 
on June 19, Nora will mark her 50th year of involvement. The first year 
was as a delegate during her high school years. The other 49 have been 
helping to bring this great experience to other young Maine women. From 
her early service as a staff volunteer to her current position as 
director, she has helped forge new generations of involved citizens.
  Nora exemplifies the principles that Boys and Girls State instills. 
Although she never sought elective office, her appreciation of the 
importance of every person's vote and her knowledge about the process 
of government made her an effective and respected town meeting 
moderator, one of the most challenging roles in local government 
throughout New England. The leadership skills she learned helped her 
become an outstanding teacher and principal.
  But the best evidence of those principles is Nora's dedication to 
spreading them. As soon as one year's Girls State week concludes, she 
is hard at work planning the next--working with high schools, 
recruiting delegates, and arranging for speakers, presentations, and 
experiences that will inform and inspire.
  It is an honor to congratulate Nora Thombs for her 50 years of 
contributions to Dirigo Girls State. She is proof that the delegates of 
yesterday are the leaders of today. Thanks to her, the delegates of 
today will be the leaders of tomorrow.

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