[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 150 (Tuesday, October 20, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2253-E2254]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                        TRIBUTE TO BONNIE KIBBEE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DUNCAN HUNTER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 20, 1998

  Mr. HUNTER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the outstanding 
life of a friend from my hometown, Bonnie Kibbee of Alpine, California. 
Bonnie passed away last month and I would like to take a moment to 
commend the

[[Page E2254]]

dedication this exceptional person had for her community.
  Born in New Hampshire, Bonnie came to San Diego with her family when 
she was a little girl. She was a small business owner, a real estate 
agent, a backcountry activist and an avid gardener whose own home 
garden became a popular fixture in the Alpine community. The Kibbee's, 
whose garden included various assortments of irises and day lilies, 
would set aside a day each spring to allow the public to come and 
visit.
  Upset upon learning that the Internal Revenue Service was intending 
to confiscate the savings account of a child to pay off a parent's 
debt, Bonnie quickly established herself as a government watchdog and 
community patriot by protecting and standing up for the rights of 
private property owners. Through her positions on the Alpine Community 
Planning Group, Paul Gann's Citizen's Committee, the Christmas Calling 
Committee and as President of California Taxpayers Network, Inc., 
Bonnie dedicated herself towards community improvement, reducing crime 
and promoting law enforcement. Among her initiatives included raising 
funds for the Alpine Community Center, finding a new home for the 
Alpine Chamber of Commerce, assisting congressional efforts to oppose 
overzealous federal acquisition of private property and working to 
ensure that human beings were provided the same protections afforded to 
birds, fish and insects.
  In a time when apathy is often chosen over public involvement, Bonnie 
Kibbee exhibited the true character of grassroots activism. As a Member 
of Congress, it is encouraging to see a private citizen who takes 
notice of what is taking place around them and works to change their 
community for the better. Thank you Bonnie for all your hard work. You 
were a natural leader, a great American and will be truly missed.

                          ____________________