[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 3 (Wednesday, January 6, 2016)]
[House]
[Page H26]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1215
                  HONORING THE LIFE OF LINDA OSMUNDSON

  (Mr. JOLLY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. JOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember a survivor, a 
leader, and a compassionate woman who dedicated her life to making the 
Pinellas County community and the State of Florida safer. Mr. Speaker, 
I rise today to honor the life of Linda Osmundson, who passed away this 
Monday at the age of 66.
  A longtime activist against domestic violence and a survivor herself, 
Linda was best known as the director of Community Action Stops Abuse, 
or CASA, in St. Petersburg, Florida. Linda served as head of CASA for 
26 years before retiring this past summer. Before that, she guided 
programs in both Gainesville and West Palm Beach. Under Linda's 
leadership, CASA grew from a staff of 7 working out of a small home to 
over 80 employees with a 100-bed facility.
  Linda started a first-of-its-kind substance abuse program for 
victims. In addition, she worked with law enforcement, who are now 
properly trained on dealing with domestic violence. She cofounded a 
program to secure pardons for victims of domestic violence convicted 
for defending themselves. For that, she earned the Governor's Peace at 
Home Award.
  Mr. Speaker, Linda Osmundson leaves a legacy that will not be 
forgotten. She was a quiet hero in our community, and her life's work 
undeniably saved thousands of lives and made Florida a safer place. For 
that, we are grateful.

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