[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 49 (Monday, March 31, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E437-E439]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

[[Page E437]]



                      WOMEN'S ART, WOMEN'S VISION

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HEATHER WILSON

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 31, 2008

  Mrs. WILSON of New Mexico. Madam Speaker, in honor of Women's History 
Month, I asked New Mexicans to send me nominations of women in New 
Mexico who have given special service to our community, but may have 
never received recognition for their good deeds.
  On Tuesday, March 25, 2008, I had the honor and privilege of 
recognizing sixty-one worthy nominations describing sacrifices and 
contributions these women have made for our community. The people who 
nominated the women describe the dedication they have witnessed: 
volunteer hours for veteran's services, service on non-profit boards, 
homeless programs, mentors for young women, health care providers going 
above the call of duty, child advocates, volunteers at churches and 
synagogues, successful business women, wives, mothers and friends.
  Allow me to share information about this year's nominees:
  Cindy Aguilar--As an integral member of the Lovelace Rehabilitation 
Hospital, Cindy demonstrates excellence in all she does. She is willing 
to take on extra responsibilities and is known for going the extra 
mile.
  Bobbye Allen--Bobbye, a member of Epsilom Sigma Alpha International, 
has always served to make a difference in the lives of people she's 
never met. She does this through philanthropic work for Boys and Girls 
Ranch, CYF, Easter Seals, UNM Children's Hospital and also as a member 
of 3 different Chamber of Commerce.
  Linda Barbour--Linda has worked tirelessly as a founding member and 
President of the East Mountain Area Coalition. She was also a key mover 
in initiating a permanent memorial for Deputy James McGrane. Her 
ability to work so efficiently with many different people makes her a 
great advocate and representative for the East Mountain community.
  Debra Benavidez--Debra is a role model for customer service at the 
Lovelace Rehabilitation Hospital. Under her leadership, her 
department's employee and patient satisfaction has improved 
significantly along with an increase in volume and revenue. She is also 
admired for her balance of career and family life.
  Peg Bilson--Peg joined Eclipse Aviation in July of 2005, bringing 
experience in operations, finance, engineering, technology, customer 
service and product support. Her leadership at Eclipse is the final 
element that will establish Eclipse's position in history as the Very 
Light Jet innovator and leader. Peg contributions are felt throughout 
the company, especially in the area of high-volume production and 
stabilization of the supply chain. As a key leader in a successful New 
Mexico business with over 1,600 employees, Peg has a vision for the 
future.
  Barbara Brennen--Barbara is the owner of Stride, Inc., a 
manufacturing company of office supplies, which employs people with 
disabilities. Barbara knows that working, mastering a task or gaining a 
skill, is the best builder of self-esteem in the world. Over 200 people 
have out-grown her factory and are now employed in the community.
  Sonia Britton--Sonia has turned a personal tragedy, the loss of her 
only son Butch in a DWI crash, into the DWI Memorial of Perpetual Tears 
in Moriarty. A true advocate for change, Sonia volunteers with 
organizations, such as Mother's Against Drunk Driving, to make a 
difference. She helps our community understand the personal cost of 
DWI.
  Marlene Brown--Marlene is President of the New Mexico Solar Energy 
Association and serving within the organization for over 10 years. 
After losing her brother in 2001 to Leukemia, she raised over $10,000 
for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Her volunteer work with many 
organizations makes a positive impact on many people.
  Patricia Brown--As a child, her son, John, remembers his mother's 
life as an unending stream of school activities, cupcakes, PTA 
meetings, child advocacy boards, soup kitchens, food banks, and 
hospitals. At 82 years old, Patricia has spent countless hours to make 
the world a safe, decent and loving place.
  Dede Brownstein--Dede is a dedicated volunteer with Pet Therapy, 
teaching the understanding of the human link to the humane treatment of 
animals. As a volunteer for pet therapy programs she takes her dogs to 
hospitals, nursing homes, libraries and the Youth Detention Center. She 
has made an impact on over 5,000 youth within the Detention Center 
alone. Dede also set up the READ to the Dogs program to help kids with 
reading problems.
  Margaret Carroll--Margaret has served on the DWI advisory board for 
four years, with the last two as president. She works tirelessly to 
secure funding for inpatient rehabilitation programs, while bringing 
awareness to our community about the dangers of alcoholism. Margaret 
also serves on the East Mountain Coalition of Neighborhood and 
Landowner Association
  Jessica Cotton--At Lovelace Rehabilitation Hospital, Jessica works 
hard to meet the needs of those she serves. She is truly an asset with 
the ability to communicate and connect with customers in English or 
Spanish.
  Becky Cousins--Becky is a woman of vision in Lea County. Through the 
arts and the community theatre program, Becky has worked hard as 
business owner, actress and director to preserve the history of Lea 
County, while looking to the future in order to enrich the lives of the 
people in her community.
  Leslie Cumiford--Leslie is the President of the Center for Family 
Justice, which was founded in 2003. Leslie has dedicated much of her 
time and resources for children, single parents and blended family 
homes.
  Bertha (Bertie) Denman--During the National Hispanic Heritage Month 
in 2007, Bertie was involved in an art contest for local students. 
Throughout this time she visited the schools, putting in the extra 
effort to let each child know how special they are, inspiring many of 
the children to participate.
  Mignon Donnellon--Mignon is the mother of four adopted children. She 
volunteers with several organizations to raise funds for scholarships 
of deserving children for higher education.
  Dr. Leslie Donovan--Dr. Donovan is described as a superior educator, 
mentor and friend at the University of New Mexico. While sharing a 
wealth of knowledge through her classes, she goes the extra mile to 
support the well-being of her students.
  Doris Duran--Mrs. Duran is the office manager at The Valencia County 
Domestic Violence Shelter, and teaches a parenting class twice a week. 
Whether it is at work or in her spare time she is always willing to 
step in and help.
  Pamela Finley--Pamela moved to New Mexico 2 years ago and wasted no 
time getting involved with several organizations in Valencia County, 
including Valencia Youth Literacy Council and the Mid Valley Air Park. 
Today, she also provides coaching for young women in the Miss New 
Mexico Scholarship program.
  Joe Ann Gantz--Born in 1932, she was the only one of 12 children to 
earn a degree from NMSU, a rarity in those days. In the 1960s, Joe Ann 
started a kindergarten, one of only two in Las Cruces. A believer in 
education, she later earned a Masters in speech therapy and worked with 
handicapped children in the Las Cruces Public Schools.
  Evelyn Gutierrez--Evelyn has been the volunteer Program Director for 
``Thomas Baca's Food Pantry'' for over 15 years. She travels 64 miles 
round trip from Chilili to Albuquerque several times a month as part of 
her commitment to the program. She has inspired others to volunteer. 
Despite having been declared ``dead once,'' she continues to live her 
passion to help others.
  Mary Halberg--Mary is the youth director at a church and school, 
supporting youth and their parents with her optimistic attitude. She 
does something special for people every day. The kindergartner class 
wanted to do something special for Mary, they nominated her because she 
takes the time to read them stories and share her passion for learning.
  Debra Hennig--A successful business woman in the Title Industry, 
Debra is sharing her success by establishing internships for young 
women through UNM's Black Student Union. Additionally, she teaches 
continuing education for the NM State Bar and involves herself in her 
church and several community organizations.
  Helen Janacek (recognized posthumously)--Helen was an enthusiastic 
Line Dance instructor at Albuquerque Senior Centers for nearly 14 
years. Each quarter, new

[[Page E438]]

classes would start with repeat students and new comers. She prepared 
those who were interested in competition as well as those who just had 
great fun. Her contribution to the senior program will be greatly 
missed.
  Anis Johnson--Anis has dedicated her life to doing for others. We can 
only highlight her service with over twenty organizations and 
charities. Anis is a Founder and Coordinator of Highland High School 
Volunteer Program's ``Community Resource People at HHS'' where she 
teaches by example, the ability to help and learn from those of 
different backgrounds. In this way she passes volunteerism from 
generation to generation. With the understanding that education opens 
doors, Anis served as the Program Coordinator for the Martin Luther 
King, Jr Multicultural Celebration awarding scholarships for college 
bound students. ``One person can make a difference.''
  Dr. Feroza Jussawalla--Dr. Jussawalla's vigor and compassion for 
Literary works and teaching naturally draws her students into the topic 
at hand. She provides her students at UNM with an exceptional 
educational experience.
  Ingrid Kloet-Garrett--Ingrid has been known to go ``way beyond the 
call of duty,'' when it comes to the medical, emotional and spiritual 
needs of her clients at First Nations Community Health Source. Her 
ability to assess needs and find resources has enhanced the recovery 
and healing needed by all she serves.
  Regina Lane--As a School Principal, Regina Lane teaches her students 
to persevere when life perplexes, to strive to be a better person and 
to rise above circumstances. There are no excuses in Regina's mind, yet 
she empathizes and connects with her students in a way that truly 
nurtures their spirits and their ability to succeed.
  Kim Lark--Kim's dedication to the New Mexico Task Force One, an urban 
search and rescue team, combined with her duties as a physician, make 
her an invaluable asset to New Mexico. In addition, her willingness to 
volunteer her time, share her considerable expertise, and represent the 
team, makes others proud to be associated with her.
  Megan Olivia Lloyd--Megan served on four church missions, building 
one church and 3 houses. She has been to Morocco with Operation Smile 
to assist with cleft palate surgeries. She has also helped raise money 
for additional surgeries. Megan maintains a high academic standard and 
is involved with athletics at Cibola High School.
  Sydne Lockwood--Sydne is a volunteer for a local domestic violence 
shelter, where she has worked in fund raising to keep the services 
available. She is active in her Air Force Junior ROTC program, which 
includes community service for charitable organizations.
  Patricia Madrid--``Ms. Pat,'' as she is known to the students of 
Acoma Elementary, is known for the care, love and tenderness she gives 
to each student. It is not unusual to be in a store and hear a young 
voice yell out ``Ms. Pat'' and see children rushing to her for a hug 
and smile. She is a person of strong moral fiber and strength of 
character, who is an unselfish wife, mother, caregiver and friend.
  Dianna Martinez--Dianna's commitment to the nurses at Lovelace 
Rehabilitation Hospital earned her the reputation as the ``go-to-gal.'' 
She coordinates the charity drive and has worked with the United Way 
for several years. Dianna is described as someone who has made a 
profound difference in the lives of others.
  Pat Mallory--Pat coordinates an intergenerational tutoring program 
run by the non-profit OASIS educational organization. Through her 
leadership, the program has grown to 100 senior citizen tutors 
providing reading assistance to over 120 first to fourth grade 
students. Her dedication and commitment to this program will only serve 
to help it to continue to grow.
  Molly McCoy-Brack--Molly is a founding member of the New Mexico 
Suicide Prevention Coalition and the professional director of Agora 
Crisis Center. The center has flourished under her leadership, with 140 
volunteers serving 700 callers per month in New Mexico.
  Betty Ann Miller--Betty Ann has a passion for literacy in New Mexico. 
She is currently serving on the Board of the New Mexico Coalition for 
Literacy, while being an active Board member of the ``Read/Write'' 
program in Moriarity, and President of the Board of the non-profit 
organization, ``Reading Works'', which is dedicated to literacy 
improvement in the Albuquerque area.
  Anastasia Mora--Anastasia is described as a team member who has made 
a significant contribution to Lovelace Rehabilitation Hospital. She has 
demonstrated excellent work ethics and customer service.
  Deborah B. Morrell--Demonstrating an ``open door'' policy to her 
staff and students with countless hours of dedication to Eagle Ridge 
Middle School, Principal Morrell is one of the most successful 
administrative leaders in the Rio Rancho School District. Through her 
leadership, the school is a model for others in the area
  Judge Judith Nakamura--The Honorable Judge Judith Nakamura has a 
commitment to seeing that all citizens have access to the court and 
receive equal justice under the law. She has made a number of changes 
in the procedures of the court to provide service to the community 
include drug courts and homeless courts. Additionally she often speaks 
to youth about her role as a judge and community involvement.
  Sylvia M. Olona--Sylvia is a dedicated Physician's Assistant who 
travels throughout New Mexico to provide health care to residents when 
no physician is available. She provides a much needed service in rural 
New Mexico.
  Eva C. Panana--Eva started her career in 1966 as a Head Start Teacher 
for the Jemez Pueblo. She retired in 1994, although she remains active 
as a Foster Grandparent. Now know as ``Grandma Eva'' she brings joy, 
laughter and love with her always. Her long commitment to education is 
apparent with the majority of the tribal members in their 50's having 
been in her classroom.
  Linda Pardo--Linda is a woman who loves the history of New Mexico, 
particularly the legend of Billy the Kid. She is seeking to share her 
enjoyment of this great land by writing a book about New Mexico.
  Clara Pena--Clara is being recognized for her multiple contributions 
in the areas of crime reduction, health, education, services to seniors 
and youth within Albuquerque, particularly in the South Valley. Through 
her work and commitment to others, projects have grown.
  Winnona Poole--Ms Poole started the after school program ``Arts 
Academy'' for La Mesa Elementary School children. She provides the 
leadership and the enthusiasm for this creative program.
  Barbara Rivers--A superb teacher of music at Sandia Prep for many 
years. Barbara also shares her talent by playing the violin in the New 
Mexico Symphony Orchestra. In addition she is a tri-athlete, serving as 
a role model to students and colleagues.
  Marianne Robinson--An inspirational School Counselor at Sierra Vista 
Elementary school Marianne greets the student and staff with the daily 
message of ``Make it a great day or not-the choice is yours.'' As a 
cancer survivor she is a role model for the message everyday.
  Carol Romero--Carol has been a dedicated advocate for the rights of 
individuals with disabilities for the past 34 years. Her advocacy began 
with her oldest child, and spread to being a successful provider agency 
to those with disabilities. Carol recently lost her husband of 37 years 
and was embraced with support from the families she serves. She will 
continue to serve those with disabilities far into the future.
  Dr. Eileen Ryan--As a Manager at Magdalena Ridge Observatory Dr. Ryan 
is guiding the 2.4-meter aperture telescope team toward wonderful 
achievements and discoveries. She shares her knowledge and experience 
with students to expand their visions of the Universe through the 
wonders of Astronomy.
  Sandi Sadila--Sandi is team member with Angels Acts of Kindness, an 
organization serving individuals who may not be eligible for other 
assistance. The nomination put it simply: ``She helped my family 
several times, and she really is an Angel.''
  Dr. V Vita Saavedra--As Program Director for the Cooperative 
Educational Administrative Intern Program, ``Vita'' touches the careers 
and more importantly the lives of future and current school 
administrators through her true interest in their success. She remains 
in contact with her students to encourage life long growth.
  Shirley Sechrist--Shirley is a tireless volunteer and valued worker 
with many community organizations including: Top donor coordinator for 
United Blood Service, multiple roles with the Assistance League of 
Albuquerque and as President of the Presbyterian Hospital Auxiliary. 
Shirley has had a positive impact on many.
  Charla Smith--An English teacher at St. Pius X High School, Charla 
shares her love of the English language and literature. She challenges 
her students at every turn with complex assignments in reading, 
writing, vocabulary and grammar thus inspiring them to dream big and 
achieve.
  Linda Smith--As director of the Bethel Community Storehouse, Linda 
serves people throughout the Estancia Valley who are experiencing 
hardships and in need of help and support. She has touched the lives of 
many and inspired her coworkers, with her positive outlook and actions.
  Wanda Sullenger--As a member of the Mountainair Volunteer Fire 
Department, Wanda dedicates her time and energy to aid the members of 
her community in difficult times. Her care for those who are sick or 
gravely ill is compared only to the level of care and comfort she 
offers to their families.
  Melissa Salmon--Melissa divides her time between the education of 
three young boys,

[[Page E439]]

working as the only secretary for the Mountain Elementary School, where 
she goes to work even during snow delays, and being a dedicated wife 
and mother. Melissa is ``a credit to her community and to her family.''
  Sallie Van Curen--Sallie is the co-founder and executive director of 
Parents Reaching Out to Help, Inc. She has inspired others through her 
dedication, drive and commitment to all the families she serves.
  Mary Ann Weems--With a life long dedication to the arts, the creation 
of the Weems Galleries and Framing and the nationally recognized Weems 
Artfest, Mary Ann is a role model for women in the arts. She has 
achieved excellence in visual arts while championing health care 
programs for children, and helping to set the standard for art 
galleries and businesswomen in NM.
  Dr. Ann Wehr--As President of Molina Healthcare of New Mexico, Dr. 
Wehr has used her talents to ensure that over 71,000 low-income 
individuals and their families receive quality healthcare. She works 
with physicians to develop innovative programs to reach the under 
served.
  Linda Walsh--Working for the Small Business Programs Office at 
Kirtland AFB, Linda is a champion for the minority business community. 
She has been instrumental in outreach from Kirtland to bring small 
business together with federal agencies.
  Beverly White--Beverly's work for the people of New Mexico through 
the Office of the Medical Investigator lasted for more than 30 years. 
One of her greatest accomplishments was writing the initial grant for 
the NM Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Information and Counseling Project. 
It has served as a national model, and helped thousands of families.
  Bobbie Williams--As a member of a number of community and business 
organizations, and an engineer at Sandia National Laboratories, Bobbie 
has served as a mentor, professional development advisor and friend to 
aspiring young people and colleagues. Bobbie is also one of only seven 
women inducted into the Girl Scouts Hall of Frame for Women in 
Technology.
  Dr. Joyce Wilson--Dr. Wilson has worked in social work for over 35 
years, founding the first External Employee Assistance Program which 
has saved hundreds of people from losing their jobs while also 
improving their lives. She volunteered with many community Boards and 
Committees to share her personal and professional skills.
  Fay Yao--Ms Yao has been the librarian at Rio Grande High School for 
over 15 years, where she has shown constant support and dedication to 
the students and staff. She is a supporter of the Science department, 
providing updates and expansion of the science reference material. She 
has served as a mentor to a number of students while always improving 
the school's library to benefit all.

                          ____________________