[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 155 (Monday, October 15, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2136]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING LAVENIA ``BEANS'' VANDIVER, A TRUE TEXAS ORIGINAL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHET EDWARDS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 15, 2007

  Mr. EDWARDS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a true Texas 
original, Lavenia ``Beans'' Vandiver who recently passed away. Born and 
raised in Moody, Texas, Beans was an inspiration and true friend to 
many, including a young state senator running for Congress in 1990. 
Beans stayed true to her Central Texas roots attending Moody schools 
and later attended Mary Hardin Baylor University. A devoted wife to her 
husband of 50 years Bert Vandiver Sr. and a loving mother to her 
children and grandchildren, Beans Vandiver was the best America and 
Texas has to offer, a vibrant force of nature that will be dearly 
missed.
  As a businesswoman, Beans was the hard-working driving force behind 
several successful local businesses and real estate endeavors. Some of 
her proudest moments were helping young couples to realize a dream of 
owning their first home. Because of her success, Beans proved to be 
ahead of her time setting a positive example for others while 
shattering the glass ceiling for women in the business world.
  As her beloved daughter Karen Vandiver-King also reminded us, Beans 
was a generous person who cared for the less fortunate and dedicated 
herself to giving back to the community.
  Madam Speaker, today's world needs more people like Beans Vandiver 
and I join those who mourn her loss but celebrate the many lasting 
contributions and joys of her wonderful life.
  I thank God for the life of Lavenia ``Beans'' Vandiver and ask his 
blessings for her family.

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