[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 47 (Tuesday, March 14, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E599]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E599]]
                         TRIBUTE TO AL JOHNSTON

                                 ______


                            HON. BOB FILNER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 14, 1995
  Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, today I rise to honor and 
remember a leader and hero, Al Johnston, known to many in San Diego as 
a legend of the barrio.
  Al Johnston was not the type of a man to sit back and let the world 
go by; he took action to make his community a better place to live.
  During the 1930's, he took his property and gave it to the less 
fortunate by converting an old car into a soup kitchen in Logan 
Heights. Later, he provided guidance and inspiration for many teens in 
the community by founding ``Los Gallos,'' a club for restless teens. He 
led voter registration drives. He was committed to making a difference 
in the lives of many in the Latino community in San Diego. He is the 
type of leader we should all try to emulate.
  Mr. Johnston was a proud leader of the spirit and soul of the barrio. 
He was adamant in his opposition to junkyards and pollution producing 
industries in Logan Heights. In the 1970's, he led the campaigns for 
the conversion of most of a 5.4-acre parcel at the foot of Crosby 
Street into a bayfront addition to Chicano Park, a cultural landmark.
  He was one voice who made a difference. My community has lost a great 
leader, and faithful fighter in the ongoing struggle to improve the 
quality of life for ourselves and our children. It is now up to us to 
continue his work and his dedication to the community.
  My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
  

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