[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 28 (Thursday, March 10, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E432]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF BEXAR COUNTY TAX ASSESSOR-COLLECTOR SYLVIA 
                                S. ROMO

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY CUELLAR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 10, 2005

  Mr. CUELLAR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sylvia S. Romo 
for her extraordinary accomplishments in business and her exemplary 
record of public service.
  Sylvia Romo was the first woman to be elected to the Office of the 
Tax Assessor-Collector of Bexar County. She is the first Latina elected 
to any countywide executive post. Her commitment, expertise, and 
innovation resulted in a better and more responsive tax system for her 
constituents.
  Sylvia Romo distinguished herself during two terms in the Texas House 
of Representatives. She was the first freshman member of the body to 
pass a major constitutional amendment, and one of only three women ever 
to serve on the prestigious Ways and Means Committee. She authored more 
than 92 bills, and worked tirelessly to promote business growth and to 
protect the interests of women and disadvantaged businesses.
  Ms. Romo is an inspiring business leader in her community. A graduate 
of the University of Texas at San Antonio, she worked for more than 20 
years as a certified public accountant. She is now the President of her 
own accounting firm, Sylvia Romo and Associates, Ltd, which has been 
recognized for excellence by state and local business organizations.
  She served as an advisor to the President's Advisory Committee on 
Women's Business Ownership, and was named one of the Top Women of the 
Decade in the United States by the Business and Professional Women's 
Foundation of New York City.
  Mr. Speaker, a lifelong San Antonio resident and mother of four sons, 
Ms. Romo is truly one of the outstanding members of her community. She 
has been a great friend to the people of San Antonio, and a shining 
example of what one woman's intelligence, generosity, and dedication 
can accomplish.