[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 136 (Friday, September 27, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1729]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO HONOR MRS. MARIA THOMSON OF WOODHAVEN, NY, BY PLACING HER 
                    NAME IN THE CONGRESSIONAL RECORD

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CHARLES E. SCHUMER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 26, 1996

  Mr. SCHUMER.  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an 
unselfish and dedicated citizen of Woodhaven, NY, Mrs. Maria Thomson. 
As a president of the Woodhaven Residents' Block Association, and a 
member of the Community Board No. 9, Mrs. Thomson's volunteer efforts 
have been commendable. In addition to her prior achievements, Mrs. 
Thomson is the chairperson of the 102d Precinct Community Council, a 
founding member of the Woodhaven Residents' Security Patrol, and a 
graduate of the Civilian Academy of the New York City Police 
Department.
  For nearly 20 years, Mrs. Thomson has labored tirelessly to improve 
the quality of life for the Woodhaven residents. As the executive 
director of the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation and the 
Woodhaven Business Improvement District, Maria has encouraged and 
implemented the revitalization of our Jamaica Avenue shopping strip. As 
a result of her efforts, she has attracted quality businesses and 
improved security and lighting along the commercial strip.
  As a testament to her dedication to the community, when Engine 
Company No. 294 closed due to New York City budget cuts, Maria Thomson 
worked as first cochairman of the committee to save Engine Company No. 
294. Eventually, this fire engine company was reopened to restore safe 
living conditions for area residents.
  Those in the Woodhaven community have come to recognize Maria 
Thomson's name as a household word because of her sincere interest and 
dedication to community betterment. She is known to always be ready to 
lend an ear and a hand to anyone who asks for her assistance. It is for 
all these reasons which I take great pride in recognizing Mrs. Maria 
Thomson as true community hero. I urge my colleagues to recognize her 
and wish her well in all of her future endeavors.

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