On the recordFebruary 10, 2020
I pay tribute to a remarkable Iowan. She is one of the longest serving newspaper columnists in America. She has an uncommon work ethic, having never missed a deadline in 70 years. Her weekly commentary in the Shenandoah Valley News has blanketed her close-knit community in southwest Iowa for seven decades. Now--get this--at age 100 years young, Evelyn Birkby--mother, farmer's wife, radio commentator--better yet, radio homemaker for KMA Radio--columnist, and author--is now retiring. Her readers will miss her byline and storytelling. Her neighborly columns about ordinary life in rural America have brought extraordinary joy to generations of Iowans. I yield the floor. ____________________
