[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 17 (Wednesday, January 28, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E162]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        IN TRIBUTE TO JEWEL PEDI

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELTON GALLEGLY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 28, 2009

  Mr. GALLEGLY. Madam Speaker, I rise in tribute to my longtime friend 
Jewel Pedi, a person of enormous intelligence and drive, who is 
retiring at the tender age of 83 to spend well-earned time with her 
family.
  More than 30 years ago, Jewel founded FOOD Share with a small group 
of like-minded members of the Ventura County, CA, community. The 
structure she built should ensure its survival for many years to come.
  Jewel's dedication comes from a compassion rooted in her faith. That 
faith led her to work 3 years with state lawmakers on farm bills; to 
build coalitions with some 200 other non-profit agencies; and to step 
up to help those in need during the Northridge earthquake, southern 
California's numerous wildfires, the La Conchita landslide, and 
hurricanes across the Nation.
  Along the way she has been honored with the American Red Cross 4th 
Annual Clara Barton Award; the city of Ventura Humanitarian of the Year 
Award; the P.W. Gillibrand Company, Inc., Humanitarian of the Year 
Award, among others.
  Jewel is moving to Bullhead City, AZ, to be closer to her children. 
While retiring from her current calling, her faith is leading her to 
another. A pastor, Jewel will perform weddings; and, she said, she will 
see if another calling awaits her.
  Madam Speaker, I know my colleagues will join my wife, Janice, and me 
in thanking Jewel for making Ventura County a stronger and more 
compassionate community and in wishing her Godspeed in her retirement.

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