[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 146 (Saturday, October 8, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: October 8, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                         TRIBUTE TO RITA MARTIN

                                 ______


                       HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 7, 1994

  Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, on October 14, a large 
gathering of friends and admirers will pay tribute to a truly 
remarkable and caring woman, Rita Martin of Bridgewater, NJ.
  For more than 20 years, Rita has been a stalwart leader on behalf of 
the sanctity of human life. She has been tireless in her commitment to 
defend the most innocent and defenseless members of our society. Her 
love of life and her abiding respect for human dignity are evident to 
everyone she meets.
  Rita has been an outstanding educator, organizer, fundraiser, and 
lobbyist. Her gentle demeanor helps her to reach those who have not 
previously been open to her important message. She is tenacious in her 
quest to defend the vulnerable but she always treats friends and 
adversaries with the greatest respect.
  Since her years as local fundraiser and regional director for the New 
Jersey Right to Life Committee in the early 1970's, Rita went on to 
become president of the committee. In was proud to serve on the board 
of directors during Rita's outstanding tenure. Members of New Jersey's 
congressional delegation and the State legislature were very receptive 
to Rita's persuasive message and often stood with her in defense of 
life.
  ``Riter'' subsequently become cofounder and legislative director for 
Citizens Concerned for Life, New Jersey. She has brought the same 
dedication and insight to this ongoing assignment.
  As founder and board chairwoman of the Pregnancy Aid and Information 
Center in Raritan, NJ, and Great Expectations in Somerville, NJ, Rita 
demonstrates her compassion for women in difficult circumstances on a 
daily basis. She has provided housing, clothing, baby accessories and a 
great deal of moral support to hundreds of women in need.
  The Catholic Diocese of Trenton and, subsequently, the Diocese of 
Metuchen recognized rita's unique talents and appointed her as their 
pro-life liaison. She has also served as a member of the Public Policy 
Committee of the New Jersey Catholic Conference. The State of New 
Jersey, recognizing Rita's sound judgment, appointed her to their 
Bioethics Commission.
  Rita Martin is the recipient of the New Jersey Right to Life 
Committee's highest honor, the Guardian of Life Award. She has also 
been honored by the Knights of Columbus at their New Jersey State 
Convention, and she has been presented with the Benemerente Medal by 
Pope John Paul Ii.
  Throughout her life, Rita has been richly blessed and she has been a 
blessing to many others. Her husband, Dave, and four children are very 
proud of Rita's selfless dedication and many accomplishments. Her five 
grandchildren, one of whom will arrive very soon, could not have a 
better role model.
  Contratulations, Rita, on a tribute that is well deserved and long 
overdue. I wish you and your family great happiness in the years ahead.

                          ____________________