[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 63 (Monday, May 7, 2012)]
[House]
[Page H2292]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING LEONA MARTENS

  (Mr. GARDNER asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. GARDNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember Leona 
Martens of Greeley, Colorado.
  Leona faithfully served the community of Weld County for 22 years as 
the executive director of the Weld County Food Bank. While Leona lost 
her battle against cancer, her legacy and influence will continue the 
fight against hunger for generations to come. Under Leona's leadership, 
the Weld Food Bank grew its annual distribution from 40,000 to 8 
million pounds of food. She expanded their operating facilities to 
35,000 square feet, where they serve more than 10,000 residents each 
month.
  The tremendous leadership, dedication, and passion she held for the 
citizens of Weld County is unrivaled, and the county has truly reaped 
the benefit of her work.
  I had the opportunity to tour the food bank--part of it is named 
after her and in her memory--this past December and fully agree with 
her colleagues and friends who described Leona as ``an amazing leader 
with tremendous vision,'' a ``tireless worker,'' and ``true friend.''
  Thanks to Leona's passion and tireless effort, Weld County citizens 
are ensured continued service and dedication.
  It is my honor to stand here today to remember and recognize Leona 
Martens for her incredible vision, hard work, and passion to improve 
the lives of the citizens of Greeley, Colorado.

                          ____________________