[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 22 (Tuesday, February 10, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E192]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF EDNA FLORES-LAGUNTE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. XAVIER BECERRA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 10, 2015

  Mr. BECERRA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to and 
celebrate the birthday of Edna Flores-Lagunte. Edna was a valued member 
of my Capitol Hill staff during the late 1990's, and she lived in San 
Francisco during the past decade. She would have turned 42 years old 
today. I say ``would have'' because, sadly, Edna passed away 
unexpectedly on June 8, 2014.
  One of Edna's great passions was participating in the annual AIDS/
LifeCycle, a 7 day, 545 mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los 
Angeles to raise funds and awareness in the fight against HIV/AIDS. 
Edna was a veteran rider and participated in her 13th AIDS/LifeCycle 
last year. Her involvement originally stemmed from a strong desire to 
raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in the Filipino American community. She 
oftentimes rode in the memory of friends whom she had met over the 
years.
  Edna took part in last year's event with her husband, Richard 
Lagunte, also a longtime rider. Sadly, she suffered cardiac arrest in 
the middle of the ride and passed away shortly thereafter.
  Not only was she well-known among event organizers and fellow 
cyclists, she was a beloved individual. Edna was genuine, enthusiastic, 
compassionate, and full of life. Her strong dedication to serving the 
needs of individuals with HIV/AIDS and raising awareness was truly 
outstanding and serves as an example for all of us.
  During her tenure in my office, Edna was a respected member of my 
staff who gave so much of herself. I will always remember her for her 
cheerful spirit, generosity, positive attitude, and her stunning smile.
  Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues and this House to rise with me 
to celebrate the birth and life of Edna Flores-Lagunte. I am saddened 
that after less than 42 years of living, we must say farewell to a 
remarkable human being who personified the very best in public service. 
I extend my deepest condolences to Edna's husband Richard, parents Nena 
and Esposito Flores, and brother Edward. She touched so many and is 
deeply missed.

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