[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 3]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 3643]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MS. KAY BEARD

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 10, 2008

  Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge 
Kay Beard, Wayne County Commissioner and dedicated community advocate, 
upon her retirement from a distinguished 30-year career in public 
service.
  Kay became interested in politics at an early age at the knee of her 
grandmother who used to host meetings of the local congressional 
delegation in their Detroit home. Throughout her life, Kay was active 
in civic and community organizations, but did not run for political 
office until 1972 when she launched an unsuccessful bid for State 
representative. Undeterred, Kay ran for Wayne County commissioner in 
1976, Kay was later appointed to fill a vacancy on the Wayne County 
Commission in April 1978. Subsequently, Kay never failed to win another 
election she ran in including her most recent reelection in 2006 to her 
15th term. Her 30 years on the commission made her the longest serving 
member ever.
  While managing the daily tasks of a county commissioner, Kay gave 
back a tremendous amount of time and effort to her community. Kay 
served on the National Advisory Council for School-to-Work 
Opportunities, the Senior Advisory Council of Blue Cross/Blue Shield of 
Michigan, the United Way Community Services Board of Directors, and was 
a founding member of Hospices of Michigan. Her efforts did not go 
unnoticed by the citizens of Michigan. The Michigan Democratic Women's 
Caucus presented her with its highest honor, the Eleanor Roosevelt 
Award. She was also a recipient of the Westland ATHENA Award and in 
honor of her achievements has had a building on the grounds of the 
Eloise Psychiatric Hospital renamed the Kay Beard Building.
  During her 15 terms on the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, Ms. 
Beard has dealt with issues ranging from the termination of the drain 
commissioner's job, a failed smoking ban, the creation of an antifraud 
law, and a valiant yet unsuccessful attempt to save Wayne County 
General Hospital. Ms. Beard felt that spirited opposition was the 
touchstone of democracy. Despite displaying a vibrant spirit, Kay has 
been ordered by her doctor to step down for health reasons. Her loss 
will be felt by all the citizens of Wayne County who wish her nothing 
but happiness.
  Madam Speaker, for 30 years Commissioner Kay Beard has faithfully 
served Michigan and Wayne County. As she enters the next phase of her 
life, she leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and 
excellence. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating 
Commissioner Kay Beard upon her retirement and recognizing her years of 
loyal service to our community and country.

                          ____________________