[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 15]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 20676]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING LYNDA THEIL FOR 33 YEARS OF PUBLIC SERVICE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 4, 2004

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lynda Theil on her 
retirement from 33 years of public service as a staff member in the 
House of Representatives. A dedicated staffer, a tireless worker, a 
sharp mind, and a good friend, Lynda's dedication to working on behalf 
of our nation's children has been nothing short of inspiring.
  Lynda began her career on the Hill working for Ohio Congressman John 
Seiberling in January of 1971, the beginning of the 92nd Congress. She 
worked for Rep. Seiberling through the birth of her two daughters, 
Corbin and Ashley, who she has raised into intelligent, sophisticated 
and beautiful young women. Upon Rep. Seiberling's retirement, Linda 
transitioned to the staff for his successor, Congressman Tom Sawyer at 
the beginning of the 100th Congress where she worked until the spring 
of 1993.
  It was at this time, when I was just starting my first term in 
Congress, that Lynda came to my staff. Her expertise and vast knowledge 
of education policy have been invaluable to me as a member of the House 
Education and Workforce Committee. She has worked on legislation 
including the Child Nutrition Act, the School Breakfast Pilot program, 
Headstart, The Balancing Act, and welfare programs to name a few. I 
would also like to honor her for helping to create the Democratic 
Caucus Task Force on Children and Families. She was instrumental in 
helping me make this important Caucus a reality and give a voice in 
Congress to those who need it most.
  After so many years of dedicated service, it will certainly be 
difficult to see Lynda go. She has not only been a resource to myself 
and other Members of Congress, but also a mentor to a countless number 
of staff members. I wish her well as she moves on to a new phase of her 
life. With one grandchild, Brady, and another on the way, she will 
undoubtedly be as busy and hardworking in retirement as she was on the 
Hill. I can say without hesitation, that Members of Congress and staff 
alike will certainly miss her.
  Mr. Speaker, Lynda Theil is the role model for what every staff 
member should be; dedicated, hardworking, caring, and devoted. Her 
presence will be missed, but not forgotten. Thank you, congratulations, 
and best wishes, Lynda.

                          ____________________