While the entire nation is grieving today, the people of Massachusetts have lost one of our own, one of the most beloved and important leaders in the history of the Commonwealth. I have always been struck by how many people in my district have been personally touched in some way by Ted Kennedy. He was helpful on issues important to western and central Massachusetts a countless number of times during my career.

To me, he was a thoughtful, wonderful friend. I could always count on a hand-written note, a warm smile and a good joke. He was a talented painter whose watercolors captured scenes of the state he loved so much. I will never forget the image of Senator Kennedy walking around the Capitol with his dogs.

He was a tireless, passionate worker for his constituents and all humanity, and I am honored to have served with him.

At this juncture in our history, it is appropriate to honor Senator Kennedys contributions to health care, but you could also write volumes about his contributions to education, civil rights, labor standards, environmental protection, military policy, and economic development. He was an icon and unifying force. We all followed and benefited from his breadth of leadership.

My heart goes out to his wife, children, extended family, and his dedicated staff.