[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 123 (Tuesday, September 21, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S11127]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          1999 NATIONAL MINORITY MANUFACTURER FIRM OF THE YEAR

  Mr. NICKLES. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize an outstanding 
Oklahoman, John Lopez, whose achievements have just earned him a major 
award--his firm, Lopez Foods, has been selected by the U.S. Department 
of Commerce as the 1999 National Minority Manufacturer Firm of the 
Year.
  John spent several years honing his business skills as an independent 
owner-operator of four thriving McDonald's restaurants. Seven years 
ago, he sold his restaurants and purchased controlling interest in the 
company that now bears his name. John is Chairman and CEO of Lopez 
Foods, an Oklahoma City meat producer that is among the select few beef 
and pork suppliers for McDonald's 25,000 restaurants.
  John took a struggling company and turned it into a vital force in 
Oklahoma's economy. He has had tempting offers to relocate to other 
states but has remained steadfastly loyal to Oklahoma and his workers. 
Leveraging his understanding of McDonald's standards and management 
philosophy, he has continually expanded and modernized his operation, 
bringing it to the forefront in food safety, worker conditions, and 
diversity. Today, a $160 million business with over 300 employees, 
Lopez Foods is ranked third among all U.S. Hispanic-owned manufacturing 
companies.
  A long time champion of minority employment opportunities, he has 
strengthened his diversity program, such that minorities now make up 
nearly 55 percent of his workforce. John was selected by the National 
Hispanic Employees' Association as its 1997 Entrepreneur of the Year.
  John also actively supports charitable endeavors that give back to 
the community, notably the Ronald McDonald House Charities. The United 
Way and the Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation Foundation benefit from his 
support as well.
  Mr. President, the Commerce Department's award is a fitting tribute 
to a dynamic Oklahoman who continues to make a difference for our state 
and our nation. Congratulations to John Lopez, community leader, 
compassionate citizen, and founder and head of the National Minority 
Manufacturer Firm of the Year.

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