(Dave Manning tribute, continued)
An Ode to Ruth
Ruth Manning has accompanied her husband to the legislature and has been a source of renewal for him during his fifty years of service.
Ruth has been the hostess in Helena and the hostess at her home in Hysham, making a home for she and her legislator whenever and wherever necessary.
Ruth lived in Helena every legislative session since 1933.
She is a charter member of the Legislative Wives Club, organized many years ago.
She was honored in 1979 by members of the Legislative Wives Club.
She was presented a gift book, "The Edwardian lady".
A poem was written in honor of Ruth Manning and read to her the day she was honored by the organization she helped to found. The poem was read by Mrs. Connie Thiessen. Mrs. Thiessen said the poem also accentuated Mrs. Manning's gracious manner and admirable personality which all Wives respect and admire as an example for all to follow.
The poem was written by a member of the Legislative Wives Club, Mrs. John Staigmiller.
An Ode To Ruth
For many years in our Wives Club,
there's been a member very dear to all;
She's been revered and respected more years
than many here can recall.
So, as we take a few minutes today,
to honor this special friend,
Let's first turn to her husband
with his record that's hard to comprehend.
A vibrant young man was Dave Manning,
when he served his first year
In the House of Representatives
of our Montana state so dear.
At the age of thirty-six,
in nineteen hundred thirty three
He arrived at the State Capitol
bringing Ruth and their family.
Little did they know then,
when he began as a freshman green,
That he'd build up an envious record
worthy of great honor and esteem.
Four years from the present time,
when he's finished this Senate term,
He'll have fifty years in our State House,
I'm happy to confirm!
It's a record nationwide,
and we're so proud we could almost bust
That such a record and such a man
belongs to Montana and to us!
Now, behind every successful man is a woman
We know that's the truth,
So, today we say, "Congratulations"
and pay homage to our good friend Ruth.
Faithfully Ruth has come with Dave,
Every session since way back when;
Her words of encouragement and praise
give him confidence again and again.
You have set a perfect example, Ruth,
which legislative wives could observe
In efforts to enhance our purpose
And a good public image to preserve.
You've always been a genuine lady,
with grace and charm, no pretense,
An ideal for us to cherish,
a model of virtue and excellence.
We want you to know we adore you
with your manner so quiet and shy,
And your presence among us is more treasured
As each new term rolls by.
CONTINUED