[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 159 (Wednesday, November 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2245]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      PAYING TRIBUTE TO JOHN CENTA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 5, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to a 
man from my district with a genuine zest for life. John Centa of 
Pueblo, Colorado recently turned one hundred years old. Throughout his 
century of life, John has spread joy to countless people whom he has 
met along the way. I am proud to call the attention of this body of 
Congress and this nation to the contributions that John has made to the 
Pueblo community.
  As a child, John helped his father on his family's farm in Kansas. He 
then moved to Pueblo, where he was employed with Nuckolls Packing 
Company for twenty years. Next, John went to work with CF&I in Pueblo. 
Prior to retirement, John and his friend Don English went into business 
together as the co-owners of Pueblo's Hurricane Car Wash, which they 
successfully operated for more than two decades.
  Each morning, John shares his boundless energy and ceaseless positive 
attitude in daily interactions with his many friends throughout Pueblo. 
One of John's favorite places to share his love of life is on the dance 
floor. A long time member of the Southern Colorado Family Polka Club, 
John is an immensely popular dance partner. Those who know him well 
attribute John's health to his great sense of humor, positive attitude, 
and ability to find joy in the simple things in life.
  Mr. Speaker, John Centa has an uncanny ability to draw others into 
his daily celebration of life. All of those lucky enough to cross his 
path are better off for having met him. I am honored to pay tribute to 
him here today. Thanks John, and happy birthday.

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