[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 128 (Friday, October 13, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1775]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING MR. JOHN HERNANDEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KAY GRANGER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 12, 2000

  Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to John 
Hernandez, one of Fort Worth, Texas' finest sons, in honor of his 
receiving the Ohtli Award from the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs 
for his lifetime service to the Hispanic community. There is no person 
more deserving than John Hernandez.
  The Ohtli Award recognizes individuals of Mexican descent who live 
outside of Mexico who have dedicated the better part of their lives to 
``opening up new paths'' to make it easier for future generations to 
follow in their footsteps. Mr. Hernandez has done this and much more 
for the Hispanic community of Fort Worth.
  Born in Fort Worth in 1931, Mr. Hernandez graduated from Laneri 
Catholic High School in 1951. Six years later, in 1957, he married his 
wonderful wife, Jeanette. Together, they have dedicated their lives to 
faith, family, and community.
  Mr. Hernandez has tirelessly served Fort Worth's Hispanic community. 
He is a Board member of the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and 
served as its Chair from 1991-1992. Mr. Hernandez currently serves as 
the Chair of the North Texas Unity Council of La Raza and as a Board 
member and Second Vice Chair of the Red Cross. He is a member of the 
University of North Texas School of Community Service's Board. Mr. 
Hernandez also serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for the 
Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth and a Council Member at All Saints 
Catholic Church. As a Scout Master and Executive Board member of the 
Longhorn Council, he has been actively involved with the Boy Scouts of 
America for almost two decades. These are just several examples of his 
invaluable contributions to our community.
  Paving the way for others to follow, Mr. Hernandez has helped tear 
down the walls of discrimination. He has always been a crusader for the 
betterment of the Hispanic community, never seeking the glory for 
himself, but instead for those around him. Our community is stronger 
for his presence and forever blessed for his dedication and devotion.
  I would like to congratulate Mr. Hernandez, his wife of 42 years, 
Jeanette, his eight children, and fifteen grandchildren and wish them 
all continued happiness and success in their endeavors.
  Mr. Speaker, Mr. Hernandez embodies the spirit of community 
responsibility we all strive towards. His life's work makes America a 
better place to live in every day.

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