[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 111 (Thursday, September 8, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1800]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   BEATRICE AVINA: WINNER OF THE 2005 JOHNS RETIREE OF THE YEAR AWARD

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                            HON. BOB FILNER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 8, 2005

  Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, by the time Bea began her career in 1984 
with the AFL-CIO Community Services Department with United Way of San 
Diego County, she had already learned that families have special needs 
due to unexpected events and circumstances. Those things she learned 
while she was a member of UFIWU and Seafarers International.
  Addressing those special needs gave her an advantage when chairing 
the Federal Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program, Catholic Charities' 
SDG&E Utilities Program, and working in cooperation with the San Diego 
Food Bank. Under her leadership, the Adopt a Family Program and the Toy 
& Holiday Food Drive were developed and still continue to be a success.
  Bea Avina has always been dedicated to bringing her fellow brothers 
and sisters social and economic justice. She is a prime example of a 
person who always puts her neighbor's needs first.
  Since retiring in December 2003, Bea has not sat idle. She currently 
volunteers approximately four to six days a month as a Retired Senior 
Volunteer Patrol (RSVP) for the San Diego Police Department and remains 
energetic in church and family activities.
  I am proud to salute Bea Avina on her recognition as the Johns 
Retiree of the Year.

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