[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 106 (Friday, July 31, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1493]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               LOUISE MARGUEZ IS AN INSPIRATION TO US ALL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HOWARD L. BERMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 30, 1998

  Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my friend, 
Louise Marquez, who on her own has transformed the community of 
Panorama City. Louise is proof that one person can make a difference--a 
huge difference. She is not only Marketing Director of the Panorama 
Mall, the commercial hub of the area, but she is also involved in 
outside activities involving literacy, gangs, youth sports, law 
enforcement and health care. It's no wonder that Louise is loved and 
admired by many.
  Louise has turned the Panorama Mall into a valuable resource for the 
community. For several years she has sponsored a free tax assistance 
program for senior citizens and low-income families. I know the service 
is a huge success; at tax time people are constantly calling my 
District Office and asking for the number to the Panorama Mall. Louise 
also co-sponsors Government Day, an annual event at the Mall that 
brings together representatives from municipal, county, state and 
federal governments to provide much-needed information to the 
community.
  Louise works tirelessly to improve the economy of Panorama City. The 
Mall is the site of numerous job fairs, as well as the Latin Business 
Expo, which brings together employers with prospective employees. I 
also know that the Mall's merchants hire many young people from the 
immediate area. The recent upsurge in the economic fortunes of Panorama 
City, and a corresponding drop in crime, can in part be credited to the 
efforts of Louise Marquez.
  With all the work she does for the Mall, it amazes me that Louise is 
a member of nine Boards and sponsor of too many events and fund-raisers 
to mention here. She doesn't know the meaning of the word ``stop.'' If 
there is another cause to champion, or group to support, you can be 
sure that Louise will get involved, especially when the focus is on 
youth. After all, Louise is herself the mother of three teen-agers.
  In recent years, Louise has been battling cancer. Her grit and 
determination to keep working--and smiling--despite her condition is 
remarkable. I am inspired by her strength and her courage.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in saluting Louise Marquez, whose love 
of community and life-affirming spirit are shining examples for us all.

                          ____________________