[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 63 (Friday, May 7, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E788]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        RECOGNIZING MRS. MARTHA MARTINA THERESA DE LA ROSA RIOS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 6, 2004

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to recognize the numerous 
contributions of Martha Martina Theresa De La Rosa Rios, who is being 
honored with the Mexican Mother of the Year Award by the Mexican Mother 
of the Year Association.
  Born on January 10, 1933, in Los Angeles, California, Mrs. Rios 
graduated from Sacred Heart of Jesus High School and married her high 
school sweetheart, Jesus Melendrez Rios in 1953, with whom she recently 
celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. A mother of five, Martha 
Rios has always prioritized the happiness and well-being of her 
children and family above all else. She made sure that her children had 
beautiful birthday cakes and presents on the holidays even though their 
financial resources were tight. It comes as no surprise to all those 
who know her--Martha Rios exemplifies a giving and dedicated mother 
whose love for her children sees no boundaries.
  Martha Rios not only devotes herself to her family, but also 
generously gives her time and energy to her community as well. As a 
first step in her goal to help others, Mrs. Rios enrolled in Rio Hondo 
College in her forties and balanced taking care of her family and 
studying to become a Registered Nurse. After attaining her degree, she 
worked in the Emergency Room at the Beverly Hospital in Montebello, 
California, where she spent many hours trying to relieve patients' 
distress.
  Mrs. Rios also worked as a nurse for AltaMed, and eventually became a 
social worker for the elderly in the community. With a strong sense of 
social duty, she often gave her patients small gifts or food out of her 
own pocket. Cherished and respected by all those around her, Mrs. Rios 
relentlessly strives to make her community a happier, healthier and 
safer place for all. Her devotion to her family, work, and her 
commitment to others has earned her the love and praise of countless 
people who have received her comfort, advice and support.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask my colleagues to join me in saluting 
Mrs. Martha Martina Theresa De La Rosa Rios for her selfless and 
extraordinary dedication to her family and our community. I am happy to 
know that there are mothers like Mrs. Rios who will serve as role 
models for future generations of Mexican-American families, and I am 
honored to recognize her today.

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