[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 41 (Monday, March 6, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E527]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                      TRIBUTE TO MARIA E. GONZALEZ

                                 ______


                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                               of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 6, 1995
  Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to relate the odyssey of 
success of Maria E. Gonzalez. Born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, in 1938, 
she dreamed of being either a teacher or politician. In some measure, 
she was able to realize her ambitions.
  After arriving in the United States at the age of 16, Ms. Gonzalez 
graduated from Commerce High School. She met Domingo Gonzalez and their 
union resulted in four children, and subsequently five grandchildren. 
When her children became adults, Maria returned to school and received 
her B.A. from Touro College. She later received a master's degree from 
Bank Street College of Education. Ms. Gonzalez put her training to good 
use and became a social studies teacher at Junior High School 296, 
where she taught sixth-, seventh-, 
eighth-, and ninth-grade students until 1993. Currently she works as a 
housing coordinator for Phipps Community, providing social services for 
the tenants of CPW houses.
  Maria has been very active in local politics. She is the female 
district leader for the 54th assembly district, and a former member of 
the United Parents Association and the Puerto Rican Teachers 
Association. Ms. Gonzalez is also the former treasurer for the election 
campaign of Councilman Martin M. Dilan, and a former assistant to 
Assemblyman Darryl Towns.
  Indeed, she has been able to realize her dreams of teaching and being 
involved in politics. Her success is truly worthy of mention, and it is 
my pleasure to highlight her accomplishments and contributions.


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