[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 42 (Tuesday, March 27, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E463]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO LA VINA MARS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 27, 2001

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to wish a longtime Bayfield 
employee best wishes during her retirement. After serving as town clerk 
of Bayfield, Colorado for 29 years, La Vina Mars has decided to retire 
to spend a little more time with her family and her horses. As she 
does, I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for her 
service and wish her well.
  La Vina became the town clerk in 1972, when the town population was 
300. At that time, she served as the town clerk, the librarian and the 
ticket agent for the bus line that stopped in Bayfield. ``She's been 
the glue that's held the town together for 29 years,'' said Ed Morlan, 
a long time member of the Town Board.
  La Vina will miss talking with residents the most when her career is 
over. ``I have some qualms about not coming to work. I will think about 
it because I have enjoyed it.''
  La Vina has spent much of her 29 years as one of only two or three 
town employees. When she started, La Vina worked as a volunteer for a 
month to learn the job's ropes. Now that she's leaving, town officials 
say it will be hard to replace her. Many credit her with helping 
Bayfield make it through a tough period in the mid 80's when the town 
nearly went broke.
  Mr. Speaker, La Vina will truly be missed by the town of Bayfield and 
the people she worked with. It is appropriate that this body say thank 
you to La Vina for her hard work and dedication.
  La Vina, your community, state and nation are proud of you and 
thankful for your years of service. We wish you all the best during 
your well-earned retirement.