TITLE: In memory of Linda Bridges.

SUMMARY: In memory of Linda Bridges.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and commemorates the life of Linda Bridges, who died January 13, 2015, at the age of 65; and WHEREAS, Linda Bridges was an exemplary educator and union leader whose commitment to Texas schools had a profound impact on the lives of countless students and teachers across the state; and WHEREAS, She began her career in education as an elementary special education teacher in the Corpus Christi Independent School District; she was a charter member of the Corpus Christi American Federation of Teachers and served as the local union's president for 24 years; and WHEREAS, She became president of the Texas Chapter of the American Federation of Teachers in 2005; under her leadership, the union's membership increased from 48,000 to more than 65,000, and she is credited with developing the process of elected consultation, through which organizations in right-to-work states can negotiate for better wages, benefits, and working conditions; and WHEREAS, A woman of courage, strength, and compassion, she gave generously to others, and her unshakeable belief in the power of education and her enthusiasm for living each day to the fullest will not be forgotten by those who were privileged to share in her life; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family and friends of Linda Bridges; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Linda Bridges. Hinojosa President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on January 21, 2015, by a rising vote.