Political Quotes

“today I want to say a few words about one of the most admired members of my staff, Katharine ``Kappy'' Scates. Kappy is retiring at the end of the year. I don't know what we will do without her. Oftentimes, public servants are in it for the accolades-- not Kappy. She, in her own quiet way, just wanted to make a difference in people's lives. Since 1996, when I first ran for the U.S. Senate, Kappy has been my eyes and ears in southern Illinois. She is a retired elementary school teacher and a friend of my predecessor and mentor Senator Paul Simon. Kappy joined our campaign as a volunteer, and we all fell in love with her. She not only knew everybody, she was happy to drive the wheels off her car to be everywhere. In 1999, Kappy came to work for us in our Marion, IL, offices. She quickly became indispensable. When it comes to southern Illinois, Kappy is a human rolodex. From Carmi to Cairo, Kappy Scates is a household name. On my behalf, Kappy met with countless people. She listened to their ideas and concerns-- and did her best to help solve problems. And whatever the task, there isn't a town in southern Illinois that Kappy can't recruit a few folks to pitch in and help. People know that when you are on Kappy's side, you are on the right side. Let me give just one example. In Ridgway, IL, Kappy helped a dental clinic. It wasn't easy; there were hurdles every step of the way. But Kappy would not take no for an answer.…”