[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 51 (Wednesday, March 28, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E475]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 A TRIBUTE TO JOANNA VARGAS, 29TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT WOMAN OF THE 
                               YEAR--2012

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ADAM B. SCHIFF

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 28, 2012

  Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Women's History 
Month. Each year during the month of March, we pay special tribute to 
the accomplishments made by our nation's most distinguished women.
  Today, I pay tribute to Joanna Vargas of Alhambra, California, an 
accomplished woman who has brought multi-generations together and joy 
to the lives of many, through her extraordinary vision for the arts. 
Born and raised in Alhambra, Joanna is a graduate of Alhambra High 
School and opened her first dance studio at the age of 26.
  Joanna's passion for the arts has been evident throughout her career. 
She is the creator of an astounding number of projects and has an 
exhaustive list of accomplishments. Joanna has launched various dance 
companies for adults and teens, created Alhambra's Monthly Mosaic Art 
Walk, Jayvee Dance Center, the Annual Maxt Out Dance Competition, 
``Streetease Fitness and Dance'' classes and instructional DVDs, and 
the Alhambra Hot Spot, which is home to an annual art event that 
celebrates music, dance, art and fashion. She is also the Chief 
Executive Officer of Dance for Peace Charity, a non-profit she 
established two years ago.
  In addition to her projects, it is noteworthy to mention Ms. Vargas's 
unparalleled service to the community. Joanna is a Board Member of the 
Alhambra Chamber of Commerce, a member of the San Gabriel Chamber of 
Commerce, charter member of the Rotary International New Generation 
Club, and President of the City of Alhambra Downtown Business 
Association.
  Joanna is a charitable woman who gives back to her community through 
her invaluable service. She has awarded scholarships to deserving 
underserved teens and children, and to people who have the desire to 
further their dance training.
  I ask all Members to join me in honoring a remarkable woman of 
California's 29th Congressional District, Joanna Vargas, for her 
exceptional service to the community.

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